New Delhi, June 26 : Delhi Power Minister Atishi on Monday said recent increase in electricity tariff in the national capital is due to coal "mismanagement " by the Central government .

Talking to media persons, Atishi said: "Despite abundance of coal mines in India, the cost of coal is on the rise. Consequently, electricity-producing companies are compelled to purchase coal at higher rates, which ultimately impacts the electricity tariff," she said.

The Power Purchase Agreement Cost (PPAC) is often fixed for ten years. Whether it's the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) or any regulatory commission, they examine the cost of power purchase and, based on their assessment, the Discoms reduce or increase the surcharge for three months, she said. 

"Those who are currently receiving zero electricity bills will continue to receive zero electricity bills. The increase in surcharge will not affect their bills. However, I would like to inform the people that if the electricity tariff in Delhi is being increased, it is solely due to the Central Government," Atishi said.